“Recent population growth has concentrated in what I would call secondary cities, often neglected by the global spotlight, but I need of intelligent planking,” says His High Highness the Aga Khan, according to the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

Nearly 40 percent of the world’s urban population reportedly resides in secondary cities – many in the Global South and facing rapid, unprecedented growth.  Unlike major metropolitan hubs, these cities often lack the data, infrastructure and planning needed to keep up with urban expansion, leaving millions vulnerable to climate change, natural disasters and inadequate services.

Habitat planning offers a critical opportunity to shape the futures of these cities, ensuring sustainable growth and safeguarding the well-being of their communities while unlocking potential for economic prosperity: 1) habitat planning protects people from natural hazards; 2) it unites communities for inclusive progress; 3) it unlocks infrastructure investment; and 4) it harnesses data for smart planning.  

1. Habitat planning protects people from natural hazards -- Countries like Pakistan, India, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan frequently face disasters – floods, landslides, droughts and heatwaves – exacerbated by climate change.  What’s more, in mountainous regions of these countries, rapid urbanization is forcing homes and infrastructure into hazard-prone areas, putting them at risk of destruction.  As people migrate from villages to towns for economic opportunities, pressure on land increases, leading to expansion on steep slopes and in valleys where exposure to rockfalls and landslides is heightened.  AKDN habitat planning integrates climate adaptation and risk management into city planning, ensuring that homes, infrastructure and livelihoods are shielded from hazards. For instance, in Khorog and Naryn, city plans now identify hazard risk zones and disincentivize building in red zones.

2. It unites communities for inclusive progress -- Participatory planning brings together residents and municipal leaders to co-create initiatives. This collaborative approach empowers communities, instilling pride and leading to lasting improvements. It also ensures that all voices, including those of marginalized groups, help shape their city's future.  Under the Khorog Urban Resilience Program, 21 neighborhoods were each allocated a grant to improve their area.  The "My Vision" competitions in Khorog and Naryn invited residents and diaspora members to contribute ideas for future development.  Supported by the governments of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, along with AKDN and the Swiss government, this initiative highlights the value of grassroots input in shaping city planning.  Winning projects, judged by local leaders and the Swiss Ambassador, were awarded prizes, and all entries have the opportunity to influence future city plans.

3. It unlocks infrastructure investment -- Secondary cities – or regional urban hubs – are often overshadowed by the size and influence of megacities, and struggle to secure funding for vital infrastructure upgrades.  AKDN’s habitat planning empowers local governments to create investment-ready projects that attract donors.  In Naryn and Khorog, aging Soviet-era water and sanitation systems need modernization to tackle urbanization and climate risks.  Collaborating with UN Habitat, AKDN has developed capital investment plans that enable these cities to prioritize their funding needs and create pitches for investors.  Over the last two years, this has unlocked over US$5 million for critical infrastructure such as solar-powered water systems, enhancing these cities' resilience and infrastructure budgets.

4. It harnesses data for smart planning -- Habitat planning relies on cutting-edge technology to protect lives and livelihoods.  Collaborating with governments and key partners like ESRI, AKDN leverages tools like satellite imagery, drones and weather monitoring systems to conduct Hazard Vulnerability Risk Assessments.  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) help synthesize vast datasets, enabling cities to craft disaster preparedness and long-term development strategies.  By combining tech-driven insights with indigenous knowledge, cities can better anticipate risks and protect their communities more effectively.